LLC "Aqua Product". Cod fish, where it lives and what this valuable fish looks like

Belongs to the Cod family; in ancient times this variety was called “labardan”. Cod received its current name due to the unusual property of the meat to crack when it is dried. There is another version of the name change: cod began to be called that way because it makes a crackling sound that appears with the contraction of the muscles of the swim bladder. In the photo the cod looks very impressive.

What does cod look like?

Sea cod or river fish? A distinctive feature is that it grows throughout its life and lives in the seas. By the age of three, the length of an individual reaches half a meter, the largest individuals can grow up to 2 meters in length, and such a fish weighs about 96 kilograms. The body of cod is distinguished by an elongated spindle-shaped shape, the scales are small and jagged. The upper part of the cod can be olive, yellowish or brown with brown spots. The sides of the cod are light, the belly is white. The longest living fish of all is cod, which is found in Atlantic waters; its age can reach 25 years, in the Pacific - 18 years, in Greenland - 12.

Atlantic cod

Cod - what kind of fish? Atlantic, for example, is the largest fish and can reach a length of 1-2 meters. This type of cod lives in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and has several subspecies. They depend on the specific habitat. Today there is the following classification of subspecies:

• Classic Atlantic cod lives from 5 to 10 years, the average length is 80 centimeters. The color is greenish, the belly is white.
• Kildin cod is found in the waters of Lake Mogilnoye, which is located in the Murmansk region. This is a real natural monument, the exclusivity of which lies in the fact that the water in the reservoir has varying degrees of salinity. Cod appeared in this lake back in the 10th century, even then it was not a lake, but a sea lagoon. The size of the cod that lives in Lake Mogilnoye is small, approximately 50 centimeters in length, and its weight reaches only 2-3 kilograms. The color of the individuals is brighter than that of the previous subspecies. Today, Kilda cod is one step away from extinction and is protected. This was caused by too frequent fishing and pollution of the lake. They tried to relocate this subspecies to other bodies of water, but representatives of this species are simply not capable of living in other places.
• Baltic cod lives, accordingly, in the Baltic Sea. It is similar in size and appearance to the Atlantic; it can reach 100 centimeters in length, and the weight of such a fish is 10-12 kilograms.

These subspecies are considered the largest in terms of the number of individuals.

Pacific cod

Its main difference from the Atlantic is in the size of the front part, namely the head. It is more massive and wide, while the body dimensions themselves are small. In length, individuals can reach from 45 to 90 centimeters in length. Maximum weight - 22 kilograms. Cod lives in the northern part of the Pacific Ocean, these are the Berengovo, Okhotsk and Japan seas. The fish feeds mainly on pollock, shrimp, crabs and worms, as well as other small fish. Pacific cod has one subspecies - Greenland cod. It is small in size, approximately 70 centimeters in length. It also feeds on small fish and invertebrate organisms.

Arctic cod

This species is divided into two subspecies: ice cod and East Siberian cod. The first variety inhabited the waters of the Arctic Ocean; individuals are distinguished by their gray color and small size. Only 30 centimeters in length. East Siberian cod lives off the coast of Greenland, North America and Siberia. The size of the individuals is larger than that of the ice fish. They reach a length of 50-55 centimeters and an average weight of just over a kilogram.

Cod spawning

Cod is a marine fish; its sexual maturity and ability to reproduce also depend on the habitat of the individuals. For example, Atlantic cod first goes to spawning grounds at the age of eight to nine years. Cod living in the waters of the Pacific Ocean begins to reproduce a little earlier, at the age of five to six years, the Arctic species are the youngest, they are ready to go to spawning grounds at the age of 3-4 years.

The breeding season usually begins in the first weeks of March. Cod is on the list of the most prolific fish, and this is not surprising, because one adult is capable of laying up to 6 million eggs. This process does not occur immediately, but gradually, in portions, over several weeks. Spawning occurs at a depth of up to 100 meters, all this time the males are next to the female in order to immediately fertilize the spawned eggs.

Then the eggs sink to the bottom, as if sticking to the vegetation. This is how reproduction occurs in Pacific cod. As for the Atlantic species, the eggs do not fall to the bottom; they are carried by the current to the north, where the larvae later appear. Already around the end of summer - beginning of autumn, young individuals enter the Barents Sea and live on the bottom for the first few years.

What distinguishes cod from other fish is that it is of great economic importance. This is because delicious, tender fish and especially cod liver have very beneficial properties. Cod liver is considered a fatty product, but fish meat is very useful for those losing weight. Unlike other varieties of fish, dried cod retains all its nutritional and beneficial properties for a long time. It was cod that helped great travelers who discovered new countries stay alive.

The benefits of cod

Cod liver is a very healthy product, which is not only rich in vitamins A and D, but also contains a sufficient amount of Omega-3 fatty acids. We have all heard of and used fish oil as a dietary supplement at least once in our lives. It comes from cod liver. But cod meat, especially steamed, is a real godsend for those losing weight. Its advantage is that with a minimum amount of calories, the body receives a sufficient amount of protein, vitamins and beneficial microelements. The highest quality cod is considered to be that caught off the coast of Alaska and Iceland. As for nutritional value, per 100 grams of fish there are only 82 calories, 0.7 grams of fat and 19 grams of protein; there are no carbohydrates at all. Isn't this happiness for those who want to say goodbye to excess weight? In addition to protein and essential amino acids, cod boasts a large amount of vitamin B12. Its task is a healthy nervous system and full development. That is why fish must be in the diet of children. It should also be mentioned that cod is a source of selenium and phosphorus. These nutrients help maintain healthy hair, skin, bones, and teeth.

Dietary properties of cod

Cod in its low-calorie content. Do you adhere to the principles of proper nutrition? Then cod is what you need. It can replace heavy meats, such as pork or beef, and not feel any weakness, loss of strength or energy. All due to the high protein content in As we know, with age, metabolic processes in the body slow down and people slowly but surely gain extra pounds. To prevent this from happening, in order to always remain healthy and vigorous, you need to make a choice in favor of low-calorie foods rich in vitamins and microelements. Cod is one of these. Various research teams have studied the effects of cod on the human body and concluded that regular consumption of cod slows down the processes of decline in cognitive activity of the brain, which inevitably occurs with age.

How to cook cod deliciously?

You can often hear from novice cooks that cod meat is dry and bland, and during cooking there is no escape from the pungent smell of fish. And if the meat is a bit dry, you can often hear that the liver is too fatty. So where is the truth?

Of course, all this takes place, and these are not shortcomings, but specific characteristics of cod. It is only important to learn how to cook it correctly. The most popular dishes with the addition of cod are salad with liver, fish soup, fillet cutlets, oven-baked cod with vegetables and steamed cod. You can also simply fry the fish, but it would be best to choose a different method of heat treatment.

What does cod taste like?

Cod is a sea fish, the meat of a fresh specimen is of a pleasant white color, slightly flaky, but nevertheless it tastes soft and non-greasy. The peculiarity of cod is that it has a pronounced taste and smell of fish, so many housewives have learned to weaken these aromas and taste qualities. To do this, you just need to boil the fish in a large amount of plain water, adding as many different spices to the pan as possible. And one more important element - celery roots, parsley and onions. It is important for novice cooks to remember that cod cannot be re-frozen, as it will completely lose its taste and become watery.

Use in cooking

It so happens that cod is a product that is used in almost any national cuisine. This type of fish is widely known throughout the world and is present on tables in every country. You can cook anything from cod and its liver, from soups to appetizers. Cod carcass can become an independent dish that can be easily and quickly prepared in the oven. But the most popular method is drying, drying, salting and smoking fish. This is because cod is one of the few types of fish that, when dried and salted, retains all its beneficial properties.

Since fish was popular with people in ancient times, history has collected a considerable amount of interesting information about this fish. Here are the most entertaining of them:

• In 1992, a cod crisis occurred in Canada and many other countries. Difficult times for fish factories began when there was a sharp decline in the cod population, which forced the Canadian government to impose a moratorium on fishing. In Canada alone, more than 400 factories that produced fish products were closed.
• Some peoples consider cod to be a gift from God, because nothing is lost from the catch, everything is put to use.
• The Portuguese have one interesting national dish called cod bacalhau. It is interesting because it was included in the Guinness Book of Records, since only 3,134 people managed to taste this delicacy.

Cod is a real storehouse of vitamins, which is available to us all year round. Including fish in your diet will help improve your well-being, increase your overall body tone and get rid of a couple of extra pounds.

Cod belongs to the cod family and lives mainly in the northern seas. The fish has a delicate taste, which is why dishes from it are prepared all over the world. Not only fillet is highly valued, but also cod liver, which contains fatty acids. The energy value of fresh fish is 78 calories. Nutritionists recommend eating it for people who watch their figure and care about their health. Cod helps eliminate bad cholesterol, fights obesity and strengthens the nervous system. Therefore, doctors recommend using it both for adults and for children whose bodies are still developing.

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Calorie content and BZHU

Cod is a dietary fish with low fat content, so it can be eaten while following a strict diet. It is also rich in protein - a source of energy for the body.

The daily norm of cod fillet for an adult is 200 grams.

For the human body to function normally, it must receive the required amount of nutrients. A balanced diet is the first step towards good health. To correctly compose it, you need to know the calorie content of foods and the amount of proteins, fats and carbohydrates (BJU) in their composition. It is also important to consider the method of their preparation.

The table shows the energy and nutritional value of cod (per 100 grams).

Beneficial features

The benefits of fish for human health are due to its rich chemical composition. Cod contains vitamins B, C, E, PP, macroelements: potassium, sulfur, phosphorus and microelements: iron, manganese, zinc. The beneficial properties of fish are discussed in detail below:

• It contains protein, which is especially necessary for children, as it is involved in the formation of cells and tissues in the child’s body. Doctors recommend introducing cod into the diet from 9 months, if there are no contraindications: a tendency to allergies, digestive problems. First feeding - 1/2 tsp. boiled fish. Gradually it is necessary to increase the portion.
• Iodine is necessary for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. With a lack of this microelement, metabolism is disrupted. Iodine activates brain activity, improves memory and increases concentration. Promotes healthy sleep.
• Antioxidants protect the body's cells from the negative effects of free radicals and slow down the aging process.
• Macroelements improve hair and nail growth and strengthen bone tissue.
• Cod liver increases sexual desire and improves potency, so it should be present in the diet of men. The main thing is to consume it in moderation, as it is very high in calories.

Red cod is a species of the cod family. It got its name because of its gray-pink color. This type of fish contains happiness hormones. Eating it improves your mood and relieves stress.

Contraindications

Eating cod can be harmful to health. The following are contraindications, in the presence of which fish can be introduced into the diet only after consultation with a specialist:

• Kidney diseases.
• Gallstone and urolithiasis.
• Allergy to seafood.
• Low blood pressure.
• Increased calcium concentration in blood plasma.

Cooking recipes

Due to the low fat content of cod, dishes made from it can be eaten even by people who adhere to strict diets. Fish goes well with rice, potatoes and fresh vegetables. Below are simple recipes for delicious and healthy dishes.

Fish in batter

Fish fried in flour and vegetable oil is a fairly high-calorie dish, so it should be eaten in moderation. Combined with fresh vegetables, it is ideal for a hearty protein dinner.

List of required ingredients:

• cod fillet - 300 g;
• lemon juice - 1/2 tsp;
• flour - 100 g;
• egg - 1 pc.;
• water - 100 ml;
• salt, ground black pepper - to taste;
• vegetable oil for frying.

Preparation:

1. 1. Cut cod fillet and marinate. To do this, pour it with lemon juice, salt and pepper.
2. 2. Prepare the batter: mix eggs, flour and add a pinch of salt in a deep bowl.
3. 3. Dip pieces of fish in batter and fry on both sides until golden brown. Then place on a napkin to absorb excess oil.

Baked cod with broccoli

Oven-baked fish combined with broccoli is a tender and tasty dish. Not only adults, but also children will like it, especially if you cook it with sour cream sauce. You can serve the fish with a side dish of boiled rice.

Required ingredients:

• cod - 300 g;
• broccoli - 200 g;
• lemon juice - 1 tbsp. l.;
• sour cream - 100 g;
• egg - 1 pc.;
• salt, fish seasonings - to taste.

Preparation:

1. 1. Cut the fish into large pieces, add salt, season and sprinkle with lemon juice. Set aside for a while to allow the meat to marinate. Instead of fresh fish, you can buy cod in briquettes, but you must first defrost it.
2. 2. Boil the broccoli for 2 minutes, then place in a colander to drain the water from the cabbage.
3. 3. Prepare the sauce: mix sour cream and egg until smooth.
4. 4. Grease the baking dish with oil. Add broccoli and fish. Drizzle sauce over ingredients.
5. 5. Bake at 180 degrees for 15 minutes.

Steamed cod

Steamed fish in a slow cooker is a light, low-calorie dish that will diversify the diet of a person losing weight.

List of ingredients:

• cod - 400 g;
• cauliflower - 250 g;
• carrots - 1 pc.;
• zucchini - 100 g;
• lemon juice - 1 tsp;
• olive oil - 1 tsp;
• spinach - 30 g;
• salt.

Preparation:

1. 1. Separate the cabbage into inflorescences.
2. 2. Cut the zucchini into cubes, the carrots into circles, and the onion into half rings.
3. 3. Cut the cod fillet into pieces, pour over oil, lemon juice, and salt. Leave to marinate for 1 hour.
4. 4. Place vegetables and fish in a steaming basket.
5. 5. Pour cold water into the multicooker bowl and install the basket. Cook in the steamer mode for 15 minutes.
6. 6. Before serving, garnish the dish with spinach and a slice of lemon.

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1. Atlantic Cod (lat. Gadus morhua) . Lives in the North Atlantic.
2. Pacific cod (lat. Gadus macrocephalus) . Preys on crustaceans, fish, invertebrates and octopuses. It is mainly found in the Pacific Ocean.
3. Greenland cod (lat. Gadus ogac) . It is found in the Arctic and also in the northwestern Atlantic Ocean. It feeds on crustaceans, fish and cephalopods.
4. . Prefers smooth seabed and deeper water layers. It is found in the North Atlantic and is a migratory fish species.

Nutritional value of cod

100 grams of Atlantic cod contains (% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)) ():

• Calories: 82 kcal (4%).
• Protein: 17.8 g (36%).
• Fat: 0.7 g (1%).
• Vitamin D: 44 IU (11%).
• Niacin: 2.1 mg (10%).
• Vitamin B6: 0.2 mg (12%).
• : 0.9 mcg (15%).
• Phosphorus: 203 mg (20%).
• : 32 mg (8%).
• : 33.1 mcg (47%).
• Potassium: 413 mg (12%).
• Cholesterol: 43 mg (14%).

The benefits of cod for the human body

Cod fish is rich in nutrients and vitamins. It also contains vitamins B3, B6 and B12. In addition, this fish contains protein, vitamin D and. It is useful for diabetic heart disease and atherosclerosis. Consuming fish daily reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and heart attack. Omega-3 fats and selenium have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation that causes rheumatoid arthritis, asthma attacks, migraines and osteoarthritis.

1. Improves muscle health

Cod meat contains a lot of protein, which plays a vital role in contraction as well as muscle coordination. Protein is found in muscle tissue, forming microfilaments and muscle structure. Muscle growth depends on having enough proteins in the body. This is important for creating a balance between muscle protein breakdown and synthesis. Muscle protein breakdown differs depending on conditions such as age ( , , , , ).

2. Strengthens the immune system

Eating cod helps strengthen the human body’s immune system due to the large amount of protein contained in the meat of this fish. Protein is necessary to create strong immunity. The human body needs a self-defense mechanism such as antibodies to prevent diseases and infections. The body's immune system helps eliminate foreign elements such as antigens from the body. The human body becomes able to react in the presence of antibodies, as well as deactivate them ().

3. Regulates nerve signals

Eating cod helps regulate nerve signals, again thanks to the protein it contains. Protein helps the function of the nervous system, which is activated when triggered by something. Another important task performed by proteins is the smooth functioning of the nervous system. They also provide a suitable response. The nervous system contains a receptor that helps respond to protein complexes ().

4. Improves hair health

Protein keeps hair healthy and prevents damage. Research shows that protein plays a vital role in hair growth. Due to the fact that protein has a positive effect on hair, hair care product manufacturers use it by adding it to their products. Eating cod helps maintain healthy and normal hair growth and prevents hair damage (,).

5. Improves skin health

The benefit of cod for women is that this seafood helps maintain the beauty and health of the skin. The protein found in large quantities in this fish helps strengthen tissues that constantly suffer from damage and wear and tear. Collagen is essential for strengthening tissues, cells and organs such as skin, which need continuous renewal and restoration. Research shows that the protein helps restore the synthesis of skin collagen protein, the amount of which determines skin health (,).

6. Improves Bone Health

Phosphorus, contained in large quantities in cod, helps improve the health of the skeletal system. It is essential for the growth and maintenance of teeth and bones. Along with calcium, phosphorus is required for the formation of strong bones. It promotes healthy gums as well as tooth enamel. Helps improve loss of bone mineral density and bone loss (osteoporosis). Research shows that phosphorus is linked to heart health and reduces the risk of heart disease (,).

7. Helps Digestion

Eating cod helps improve digestive functions. The phosphorus contained in cod plays a vital role in facilitating digestion. Niacin and riboflavin, also found in this fish, are essential for the metabolism of energy for the emotional and neurological response systems. Thanks to this, its use helps eliminate constipation, indigestion and diarrhea, as well as remove toxins from the body ().

8. Helps in the restoration of body cells

Thanks to the phosphorus contained in cod, regular consumption of it helps in the process of repairing body cells that experience constant wear and tear. This trace element stimulates the development of body cells. It helps form protein, and stimulates hormones to respond properly ().

9. Supports Heart Health

Cod and disease prevention

Cod may reduce the risk of developing or prevent the following diseases and conditions:

• Atherosclerosis
• Heart disease
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• High cholesterol
• High triglyceride levels
• Thrombosis
• Pulmonary embolism
• Cancer (eg, colon cancer)
• Leukemia
• Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
• Multiple myeloma

One of the most well-known beneficial properties of cod is its positive effect on the cardiovascular system. In particular, this fish is an excellent option for people suffering from atherosclerosis or diabetic heart disease. This is because the omega-3 fatty acids found in cod are beneficial for thinning the blood and controlling high blood pressure. They help prevent clogged arteries. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to prevent arrhythmia and ischemic stroke.

Is it possible to eat cod during pregnancy?

The higher levels of mercury found in cod can harm the fetus or newborn, so pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to be careful about what fish they eat. According to FDA, pregnant women and children under six years of age should eat only two servings of low-mercury fish per week. Cod contains moderate amounts of mercury and should be avoided by children and pregnant women.

Harm to the body from cod: precautions and contraindications

Cod is a fairly large predatory fish, and therefore a moderate amount of mercury accumulates in its body. In this regard, experts recommend limiting the consumption of this fish to 200 g per week.

People with seafood allergies should not eat cod.

Other facts about cod

• Large cod can weigh up to 100 kg.
• This fish can develop low speed.
• The female can lay up to 5 million eggs, which hatch in 8-23 days.
• The fry are 0.41 cm long and are transparent.
• Mature age of cod occurs at 3 - 4 years.
• Atlantic cod has a lifespan of 25 years in the wild.
• Atlantic cod is also called "sacred cod".

For adult cod, humans are natural predators.

The cod fish family consists of almost 100 species, living primarily in the waters of the Northern Hemisphere. All of them, with the exception of burbot, are representatives of the marine ichthyofauna. In addition to the usual cod, saffron cod, haddock and pollock, the order of codfish includes such exotic fish for the Russian consumer as menek, gadikul, and molva.

Some species are subject to commercial catch, others are of interest only to amateur fishermen.

General features and distinctive features

The main signs of belonging to the cod family - a fleshy mustache on the lower jaw and spots of various sizes and shapes scattered throughout the body - are not shared by all representatives of the order. Some fish have silvery scales and absent or poorly developed antennae.

But almost all fish of the family have other “family traits” (pictured).

A sign of the cod order is large eyes on a disproportionately large head and a light longitudinal stripe along the body

Characteristic features of the family include the absence of spiny rays in the fins and large gill openings. The body of cod is covered with small cycloid scales.

The table provides a list and brief description of the commercial and most nutritionally valuable cod fish.

In addition to commercial species, the list of fish of the cod family includes popular recreational fishing objects:

• cod or arctic cod, a small fish (average length 25 cm) that lives in the Arctic Ocean. They catch it in the White and Barents Seas;
• Gadikul (another name is big-eyed cod), the smallest representative of cod reaches a length of 12 cm. A distinctive feature is the huge eyes, occupying a third of the head. The antennae is missing. The sides are silvery with dark small spots. Gadikula are often used as bait for catching other cod fish;
• tomcode ; The genus includes 2 species that differ in size and habitat: the Atlantic tomcod (average length 35 cm) and the Pacific tomcod or American cod (length 30 cm). In Russia they are caught in the Barents Sea, off the coast of Murmansk. In the USA and Canada it is an object of sport fishing;
• luska (kapelan, French cod), a beautiful copper-brown fish with yellowish sides, decorated with 4-5 transverse dark stripes. The average length is 30 cm. They are caught with a fishing rod in the Mediterranean, White, Barents, Kara, and Chukchi seas.

The usually gray, dull color of the back of the viper may vary depending on its habitat

Common burbot

It is no coincidence that burbot (the outdated name is men) stands in a separate row. This is the only representative of cod species that lives in fresh water.

The fish feels comfortable in cold rivers and lakes. The largest population is found in the northern reservoirs of Russia. The freshwater predator can be found in smaller quantities in rivers flowing into the Black and Caspian Seas. Northern burbot is larger than its southern counterpart. Its average weight ranges from 3–6 kg with a length of up to 80 cm (in warm waters it rarely exceeds 600 g).

Note! Burbot always looks for the coolest place in the river; it often settles in the area of ​​springs. In the absence of underwater springs, the fish chooses snags, deep holes or large rocky placers as a habitat.

The color of the fish largely depends on the type of bottom (pebbles, sand, clay) and the degree of transparency of the water. The traditional color is brownish or dark brown, which becomes lighter as the fish grows and ages. The belly of the burbot is olive, the fins are dark gray, almost black. Like most cod fish, burbot is decorated with dark, chaotically scattered spots.

When in ambush, burbot puts forward a moving whisker, which attracts small fish

A flat head with small eyes, three whiskers (on the chin and along the edges of the upper jaw), and mucus covering the body make the burbot look like a catfish. It is not difficult to distinguish fish. The body of the burbot is covered with cycloid scales (the catfish does not have scales). Burbot is a nocturnal predator. The structure of its sense organs is designed for hunting in complete darkness.

Note! The fish has exceptional hearing and is very curious. Having caught an unusual sound, the burbot rushes to the source of the noise, sometimes covering a considerable distance. Fishermen often take advantage of this behavioral feature.

Diet

Fish belonging to the order Codfish, with a few exceptions, are predators.

At a young age, they feed on bottom invertebrates: crustaceans, shrimp, worms. As you get older, your diet changes. Now it is based on small fish, including representatives of its own family. For example, cod actively eats young pollock. Blue whiting often becomes prey for haddock.

Small representatives of the order (gadikul, cod) feed on plankton and benthonic crustaceans, but sometimes they diversify their menu with fry or eggs of their fellow creatures.

Strong, fast pollock hunts in a flock. The noise made by the school can sometimes be heard on the surface of the reservoir

Cannibalism is very common among cod fish: their own young often become their prey.

Interesting fact! The accumulated fat is deposited in cod fish in the liver, which due to this acquires a lot of useful properties. Saturated with vitamins, macro- and microelements, essential amino acids, liver is useful in the prevention and treatment of a wide range of diseases.

Reproduction

Sexual maturity in the vast majority of the family occurs after 3 years of life. Large individuals (cod, moth) begin to spawn upon reaching 6–8 years of age. Spawning occurs in late winter or early spring. Codfish are very prolific. Large individuals can lay up to 9 million eggs. Navaga lays up to 90 thousand eggs, small representatives of the family - no more than 6 thousand. The eggs and hatched larvae lead a predominantly pelagic lifestyle. The current carries them over considerable distances from the spawning site.

The fry spend the first year of life in shallow water near the shore. They often hide under the bell of jellyfish. As they mature, the juveniles move deeper and begin to make seasonal migrations.

Cod and haddock fry use the Cyanea jellyfish as shelter

Interesting fact! From the eggs laid by blue whiting, only males are born. As they grow older, some fry show signs of females. By the age of sexual maturity, the ratio of males and females of blue whiting becomes equal. Towards the end of life (a fish lives on average 20 years), all individuals gradually turn into females.

Cod fish are a priority object of domestic and world fishing. They are valued for their tasty low-calorie meat and low bone count. Affordable price plays an important role.

Cod are a coveted trophy for fans of sea fishing. Trolling and vertical fishing are the most popular methods. Representatives of the family are successfully caught from the shore using spinning rods or bottom gear. Either way, cod fishing is a lot of fun.

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Cod - Gadus morhua - Atlantic, Pacific, Baltic, White Sea, Greenland - sea schooling bottom fish from the cod family.

The body length of cod is from 40-50 to 180 cm, adult cod weighs up to 40 kg.

But, as a rule, cod that ends up on the counter is no more than 40-60 cm and weighs up to 4-10 kg, and more often even less. The age of such cod is 3-10 years

The body of cod is covered with small round scales. The color of cod has greenish-olive or brown shades with small brownish spots. The belly is white. There is a small fleshy barbel on the chin of the cod.

Cod is found in temperate waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

For example, Baltic cod reaches sexual maturity at 3-4 years, Atlantic cod at 5-8 years.

Cod spawns once a year.

Arctic cod breed off the coast of Norway. The main spawning grounds for this fish are located near the Lofoten Islands.

Cod usually spawn near the coast in quantities from 500 thousand to 60 million eggs.

Females spawn for several weeks, producing 2-3 batches. Males fertilize her at this time.

Spawning begins in March and lasts almost all of April; it occurs at a depth of up to 100 meters, on the border of warm and cold waters.

The current picks up the fertilized eggs and carries them north.

The fry drift for a long time, and only in September do the juveniles reach the eastern regions of the Barents Sea, where they become bottom fish.

Bottom cod lives at a depth of 60 meters.

The hatched larvae and juveniles initially feed on zooplankton and stay close to the shore. Then they move on to bottom invertebrates.

The young grow up by the age of three and turn into predatory fish. Adult cod feed on gerbil, capelin, cod, herring, navaga, other fish, crabs, crustaceans, shrimp, octopus, and worms.

In bivalves, cod bite off the legs they extend. It can also eat its own young.

Atlantic cod makes feeding and spawning migrations over distances of up to 2000 km.

In October, cod gather in large schools and begin their migration back to the Lofoten Islands. To travel this path - over 1500 km - the flock needs 5-6 months.

Cod moves at a speed of approximately 7-8 km per day.

The lifespan of cod is on average 20-25 years.

Industrial fishing of Norwegian Arctic cod occurs from January to April.

Coastal cod is caught all year round. Fishermen catch cod using lures.

Unfortunately, due to unlimited cod fishing and pollution of the world's oceans, the number of cod fish is declining every year.

The countries that catch the most cod are Norway, Russia, Iceland, Canada, Denmark and the UK.

Atlantic cod is already listed in the Red Book of Russia and the International Red Book.

In addition to the fact that cod is a valuable tasty fish, white, dense, juicy, the meat of which contains protein, little fat, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, cod liver is valuable, which contains vitamins D, group B, carotene, omega -3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

It is from cod oil that vitamins A and D are obtained, which are sold in pharmacies.

Canned food is produced from the cod liver itself.

The cod has a nice, sea grass-like quality...

Cod is used in many countries to prepare a wide variety of dishes.

It is fried, boiled, baked, stuffed, stewed with vegetables, served with various sauces and mayonnaise.

Cod is used to prepare cutlets, zrazy, meatballs, and pie filling.

Salted in barrels, smoked.

In Norway, cod caviar is harvested and sold in different countries.

Some cod recipes.

Cod soup

You will need:

500 g cod;
- 1 liter of broth from fish heads and tails;
- 4 potatoes;
- 1 onion;
- 2 cloves of garlic;
- 2-3 tomatoes;
- 1 parsley root;
- 10 g parsley;
- 5 g dill;
- olive oil for frying;
- 2 bay leaves;
- salt, pepper to taste.

Cooking method:

Put on the fire, let it boil and add the sliced ​​potatoes.

Fry 1 finely chopped onion, parsley root and 2 chopped garlic cloves in a deep frying pan.

After 3 minutes, add finely chopped vegetables, simmer for another 5 minutes.

Place chopped fish or cod fillet into the pan with the potatoes.

Add to the broth from the pan. Five minutes before readiness, add half the chopped parsley and dill, bay leaf, salt and pepper.

Add the second half of the chopped greens to the plates when serving.

The best bread for this soup is rye-wheat.

Cod stew

You will need:

500 g cod fillet;
- 2-4 carrots;
- 2 onions;
- 5 g parsley;
- a little olive oil;
- salt, pepper to taste.

Cooking method:

Pour oil into the bottom of the frying pan, add onions, grated carrots, fish, onions and carrots again. Season the layers little by little with pepper and salt. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Cover with a lid, leaving a small crack, and place in the oven to simmer.

Cod fillet with vegetables:

You will need:

400-500 g cod fillet;
- 2 carrots;
- 2 onions;
- 1 sweet bell pepper;
- 40 g cheese;
- 2-4 tbsp. spoons of mayonnaise;
- salt, pepper to taste.

Cooking method:

Place the onions cut into rings, grated carrots and thinly sliced ​​peppers into the mold. Place cod fillet cut into pieces on top. Salt and pepper. mix with grated cheese and pour over fish. Bake in the oven for about an hour.

Cutlets

You will need:

400 g cod fillet;
- 1-2 onions;
- ¼ city bread soaked in milk;
- 2 eggs;
- vegetable oil for frying;
- breadcrumbs;
- salt, pepper to taste.

Cooking method:

Wash the cod fillet and pass through a meat grinder along with the onions.

Stir and pass the minced meat through the meat grinder again, add the bun, eggs, mix, salt, pepper, form cutlets, roll in breadcrumbs and fry on both sides until golden brown.